Located just up the hill from San Francisco’s Marina District, Cow Hollow serves up an eclectic variety of foods. Featuring eateries both exquisitely upscale and casually approachable, what this neighborhood may lack in actual bovines it makes up for with a bevy of highly acclaimed restaurants. From grab-and-go cheap eats to tasting menus that make great anniversary or date fare, the dining options in Cow Hollow run the gamut from classy to crass and back again. Here are a few of the top locations to be found in this diverse district that stays true to Fog City’s eclectic roots.

Atelier Crenn

Just about the polar opposite of a casual food stand, Atelier Crenn doesn’t serve any food that isn’t accompanied by a snippet of high culture. All of the dishes at this Michelin-starred Cow Hollow restaurant are named in the form of a poem which might make ordering somewhat of an adventure for those patrons who are less literary inclined. The chef certainly isn’t kidding around when it comes to her sumptuous French-inspired fare.

Balboa Cafe

Treading the fine line between classy and casual is the popular bar and grill known as Balboa Café. Curious patrons stepping into this Cow Hollow food spot enjoy American classics including the Balboa Burger that’s piled high with your choice of cheese, caramelized onions, fried egg, sautéed mushrooms and smoked bacon or avocado. Stop in on Tuesday nights for live music.

Tacko

With the taqueria craze in full swing in San Francisco, it seems that the owners of this omnipresent type of eatery will do just about anything to stand out. But one taste of the fare served at Tacko is enough to prove that this Cow Hollow restaurant doesn’t need any gimmicks to stand apart from the herd. A focus on seafood, a rich drinks menu and plentiful seating both inside and out could make Tacko a hit no matter what name was tacked above the door.

Cow Hollow food pleases patrons looking to wine and dine as well those out for a quick bite to eat. Try these acclaimed restaurants for your next night out.